Canguçu is the second biggest tobacco-producing region in Brazil composed almost entirely of small farms. However, the system of tobacco monoculture is responsible for significant regional water and soil contamination from harmful pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Moreover, small farmers receive little compensation for growing tobacco and poverty is endemic.

With the support of BrazilFoundation, local farmers will be trained in the sustainable cultivation of four varieties of sweet potato and receive support for commercialization, ensuring its viability as an alternative to tobacco monoculture. Sweet potatoes are a traditional staple of the region, are well adapted to climate and soil, and require minimum investment in equipment, fertilizer or pesticides. Workshops on resource management and organic agriculture will help preserve the environment, generate income and protect food security.